Herbal
Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium)
Also known as: Epimedium, Yin yang huo, Icariin, Barrenwort
Traditional Chinese herb with PDE5 inhibiting properties, though weaker than pharmaceuticals.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium) product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nootropics Depot Eurycomax Capsules | 86 A- | $2.17 |
| 2 | Nutricost Horny Goat Weed Capsules | 86 A- | $0.09 |
| 3 | Double Wood Horny Goat Weed Supplement | 86 A- | $0.44 |
| 4 | Micro Ingredients Organic Horny Goat Weed Powder | 85 A- | $0.29 |
| 5 | Nutricost Testosterone Complex Capsules | 84 A- | $0.57 |
| 6 | NOW Foods Testo Jack 200 | 83 A- | $0.57 |
| 7 | NOW Foods Horny Goat Weed Extract | 80 A- | $0.18 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium) should I take?
The typical range is 250-1000mg extract (standardized to 10-20% icariin). Daily use for ongoing effect
When should I take Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium)?
1-2 hours before activity or divided daily. Either way.
Which form of Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium) is best?
Standardized to icariin — Active compound. Other forms in the catalog: Traditional extract.
Is Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium) safe?
Commonly reported: Dizziness, Dry mouth, Nosebleed, Rapid heart rate. Serious warnings: Blood pressure effects, May affect heart rhythm. Safe short-term
Which Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium) supplement scores highest?
Nootropics Depot Eurycomax Capsules, at 86/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Libido
- Erectile support (mild)
- Traditional aphrodisiac
How it works
- Contains icariin (weak PDE5 inhibitor)
- Traditional aphrodisiac
- May support testosterone (weak)
- Bone health effects too
Dosage
- Typical range
- 250-1000mg extract (standardized to 10-20% icariin)
- Timing
- 1-2 hours before activity or divided daily
- With food
- Either way
- Duration
- Daily use for ongoing effect
- Special populations
- Those seeking mild erectile/libido support
Forms
- Standardized to icariin
- Traditional extract
Safety
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Nosebleed
- Rapid heart rate
Contraindications
- Heart conditions
- Blood pressure issues
- Bleeding disorders
Products containing Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Traditional use, icariin has PDE5 effects but weaker than Viagra
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.